How to Locate a Private Facebook Page

Locate private Facebook profiles using the site's primary search function.

Because of the vast amount of content that Facebook users post to their profiles, the social network's privacy settings are very in-depth and finely customizable. Many users on the site restrict their profile information to be visible only by added friends. Facebook's settings even allow you to hide certain information from certain groups of friends. If you just met someone who keeps a private Facebook profile, you may need to dig a little further to find her on the site.

Instructions

1. Log in to Facebook and enter the person's name in the primary search field. If the individual doesn't appear in the initial list of results, click "See All Results" and click the "People" tab. You may have to filter your results by location or a school network. Once you locate the name, click the link to see the person's limited profile.

2. Browse the friend list of a mutual friend you share with the person. Since many users limit their information to friends and friends of friends, you may still be able to find the individual through a friend you both share. If the user's name is still greyed out, you may be completely blocked from even sending the person a message or a friend request.

3. Contact the user through email or a text message, if you have the appropriate contact information. Explain that you're having trouble locating his profile and ask for his Facebook user name. This user name is the name or phrase that appears at the end of the URL for their Facebook profile, for example, "http://facebook.com/Username." Accessing this direct URL will allow you to send a friend request, so you won't have to go through the arduous search process again.

Tips & Warnings

• Alternatively, you could send your Facebook user name or URL to the person and ask him to add you instead.

• Facebook harassment violates the terms of service agreement for the social networking site. Don't stalk or taunt users who choose to keep their information private. Don't contact someone and ask for her Facebook URL if you have never met her.

References

• Facebook: Privacy Guide